Edward A. Olsen, D.M.D., 76, passed away peacefully March 23, 2026, surrounded by his loving partner and wife of 23 years, and his devoted sister.
He was born July 19, 1949, in Brooklyn to the late Mary Apicella and Edward Olsen Sr. He is survived by his wife, Cathy Hayes Olsen; his sister, Patricia Cavagnaro (John); two nieces, Patricia Chiano (Donald) and Christine Backus (David); and his six great-nieces and nephews.
After graduating from Belmont Abbey College, where he was a member of the golf team, he earned his D.M.D. from Fairleigh Dickinson University School of Dental Medicine. Ed began his dental career with private practices in Woodbury, Connecticut, and Edison. He then settled in Red Bank, serving his community for over 35 years. He also served as director of Dental Services at Woodbine Development Center, caring for individuals with disabilities. He held clinical instructor positions at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Waterbury Hospital and Fairleigh Dickinson University and consulted for the March of Dimes Cleft Palate Clinic.
In addition to his devotion to his dental practice and community, Ed was an avid golfer and fly fisherman, and a devout Catholic, attending masses at St. Anthony of Padua every Sunday.
His wonderful friends and family supported him through his Alzheimer’s journey.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held March 28 at St. James Church, Red Bank. Interment was private. Thompson Memorial Home of Red Bank has been entrusted with the arrangements.
The article originally appeared in the April 2 – 8, 2026 print edition of The Two River Times.
